A Quick Fix for Stubborn Spots

(August 1, 2007) -- It may sound simple, but it works: To tone faster, target your primary trouble zone first. You get the best results from exercise while your body's still fresh, suggests a study published in the Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research. The old thinking was to exercise and tone large muscle groups (legs, butt) before smaller ones (abs, arms), but fatigue caused women in the study to complete fewer reps at the end of their workouts.

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Bottom line: To tone your tummy, lead off with abs. For a better butt in jeans? Start with squats.

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